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EchoMind #2
Hearing Through Silence
Fifteen years after a mysterious outbreak shattered the world, Europe is overrun by Demons. Cities lie in ruins, while United Forces of European Purification work tirelessly to reclaim the Old Continent. But this is not an ordinary war, as Demons whisper madness into the thoughts of men, driving soldiers to paranoia and despair. Only women can resist their influence, forming vital partnerships with male fighters. Together they create elite units of Purifiers and Sentinels, the only force capable of standing against the spreading darkness.
Following the Lair Operation in Le Mans, Herais Blackburn is not entirely sure of her role in the war anymore. She started as a photographer, but the aftermath of the battle-day changed everything, and she slowly comes to the realization that being a passive observer is not an option anymore. The emotional toll of the shift and complicated feelings she develops towards the men who should stay off-limits, make the transition even harder to endure. And worst of all, she starts doubting not only the authorities she used to trust, but her own mind as well.
Hearing Through Silence, the second installment of the EchoMind Series, is set in a post-apocalyptic, demon-infested Europe. It follows the story of five elite soldiers and one woman, who may prove to be their salvation or their doom.
allies to loversSlow burnPost-apocalyptic settingMilitaryWhy chooseDemons & monstersMultiple POVsZombiesSurvival
Following the Lair Operation in Le Mans, Herais Blackburn is not entirely sure of her role in the war anymore. She started as a photographer, but the aftermath of the battle-day changed everything, and she slowly comes to the realization that being a passive observer is not an option anymore. The emotional toll of the shift and complicated feelings she develops towards the men who should stay off-limits, make the transition even harder to endure. And worst of all, she starts doubting not only the authorities she used to trust, but her own mind as well.
Hearing Through Silence, the second installment of the EchoMind Series, is set in a post-apocalyptic, demon-infested Europe. It follows the story of five elite soldiers and one woman, who may prove to be their salvation or their doom.
allies to loversSlow burnPost-apocalyptic settingMilitaryWhy chooseDemons & monstersMultiple POVsZombiesSurvival
602 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2026
About the author
Sigrun Lien
3 books86 followersSigrun Lien is an independent author writing for readers who crave complex characters, high-stakes action, and stories that embrace the darker side of fantasy and romance. Her work weaves together elements of horror, mystery, and a fusion of fantasy and science fiction, creating worlds where danger lingers beneath the surface.
Her characters are flawed yet determined to become better, and their relationships are shaped by difficult choices, hidden struggles, and the quiet weight of what remains unspoken. The author of EchoMind Series.
Her characters are flawed yet determined to become better, and their relationships are shaped by difficult choices, hidden struggles, and the quiet weight of what remains unspoken. The author of EchoMind Series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
July 27, 2026
okay now what.. am I meant to stare into space now that this book is over? i gobbled this up so fast now i wish i treasured it more.... what am I meant to do while I wait for the next book... I don't know man I'm lost
September 27, 2026
While I understand, this is a dark dystopian/apocalyptic story, this one was a little too gloomy.
War and toxicity go hand-in-hand. These people are mentally and physically at their end, they are battling creatures they’ve never seen before, with powers that can infiltrate their mind.
Everywhere I look, tentacles, antennae, multiple limbs, snapping tails, and insect-like heads poke over the multitude of marching ghouls. A cacophony of screams and shrieks fills the space, turning into one collective holler.
The only thing they have to save them is a woman, a sentinel who can make the demon mind fuckery melt away.
It’s not only fighting Demons that destroy our world—it’s fighting your own demons as well.
Herais matures some since the first book, it was wonderful to see her gain a little confidence. But wow, I was sick of everyone fighting. It was one step forward and three steps backward every time.
The heroes continue to battle the monsters, and Herais joins them in a different capacity than the first book. Although she gains some amazing abilities, she goes through a pretty horrific time to get back to her guys. Even before this happens, there was a bit of a man hating vibe throughout this story. We know from the first book that women can’t battle these monsters alone, so we need the male/female energies to come together. These people desperately need that cosmic duality.
Just a fellow woman, forced to accept the harsh truth, that no matter how hard she trains and what rank she holds, there could always be a man stronger than her.
Everyone is so emotionally broken in this story that they cannot have ONE simple honest conversation. The back-and-forth, misunderstandings really pissed me the fuck off.
An achingly slow burn, but our patience finally pays off, and we are given one hot intimate scene between the heroine and one hero.
The political games were quite heavy, it’s apparent there is a lot of subterfuge happening. It’s hard to know who you can trust.
Overall, I have really enjoyed this universe, and look forward to reading this author‘s next creation. Definitely leans more horror than dark fantasy/post apoc and if you are allergic to miscommunication (or abysmal communication) this one might extremely irritate you.
Tropes/themes:
Set in France
Dark fantasy/sci-fi
Military fiction
Post-apocalyptic/dystopian
Supernatural horror
Demons/zombies/gouls
Political intrigue
Humanity barely hanging on
Complex relationships
Physical violence
Bullying
Soooooooooooow burn
Cliffhanger ending
Not a standalone
And wtf was that ending….if I didn’t already hate Eve. I am still dreaming of her beheading by a slimy toothed horrifying creature, and make it slow please.
War and toxicity go hand-in-hand. These people are mentally and physically at their end, they are battling creatures they’ve never seen before, with powers that can infiltrate their mind.
Everywhere I look, tentacles, antennae, multiple limbs, snapping tails, and insect-like heads poke over the multitude of marching ghouls. A cacophony of screams and shrieks fills the space, turning into one collective holler.
The only thing they have to save them is a woman, a sentinel who can make the demon mind fuckery melt away.
It’s not only fighting Demons that destroy our world—it’s fighting your own demons as well.
Herais matures some since the first book, it was wonderful to see her gain a little confidence. But wow, I was sick of everyone fighting. It was one step forward and three steps backward every time.
The heroes continue to battle the monsters, and Herais joins them in a different capacity than the first book. Although she gains some amazing abilities, she goes through a pretty horrific time to get back to her guys. Even before this happens, there was a bit of a man hating vibe throughout this story. We know from the first book that women can’t battle these monsters alone, so we need the male/female energies to come together. These people desperately need that cosmic duality.
Just a fellow woman, forced to accept the harsh truth, that no matter how hard she trains and what rank she holds, there could always be a man stronger than her.
Everyone is so emotionally broken in this story that they cannot have ONE simple honest conversation. The back-and-forth, misunderstandings really pissed me the fuck off.
An achingly slow burn, but our patience finally pays off, and we are given one hot intimate scene between the heroine and one hero.
The political games were quite heavy, it’s apparent there is a lot of subterfuge happening. It’s hard to know who you can trust.
Overall, I have really enjoyed this universe, and look forward to reading this author‘s next creation. Definitely leans more horror than dark fantasy/post apoc and if you are allergic to miscommunication (or abysmal communication) this one might extremely irritate you.
Tropes/themes:
Set in France
Dark fantasy/sci-fi
Military fiction
Post-apocalyptic/dystopian
Supernatural horror
Demons/zombies/gouls
Political intrigue
Humanity barely hanging on
Complex relationships
Physical violence
Bullying
Soooooooooooow burn
Cliffhanger ending
Not a standalone
And wtf was that ending….if I didn’t already hate Eve. I am still dreaming of her beheading by a slimy toothed horrifying creature, and make it slow please.
April 11, 2026
5.5 *
I want to scream right now! I knew 600 pages wouldn’t be enough, I don’t think any amount of pages will ever be enough… I love this series so damn much, it’s crazy. And now the book slump starts because nothing like this exists out there (or I haven’t found it yet). But the mix of a (post)apocalyptic storyline with a strong focus on the military, combined with a touch of the paranormal, tension between characters, betrayal, twists and turns, … It is so, so good. There are no proper words to describe what this series does to me.
I adore Herais, I really do. Her character evolves in such a breathtaking way, and it’s amazing to watch her slowly stand up more for herself while navigating a world that becomes more dangerous with every new chapter. Some of the men in her life manage to provoke a whole bunch of emotions in me, but I really hope there is some strong groveling in the future. Herais totally deserves to see them all on their knees (or at least two of them).
This series deserves a lot more attention! And I can’t wait to get my hands on book three.
I want to scream right now! I knew 600 pages wouldn’t be enough, I don’t think any amount of pages will ever be enough… I love this series so damn much, it’s crazy. And now the book slump starts because nothing like this exists out there (or I haven’t found it yet). But the mix of a (post)apocalyptic storyline with a strong focus on the military, combined with a touch of the paranormal, tension between characters, betrayal, twists and turns, … It is so, so good. There are no proper words to describe what this series does to me.
I adore Herais, I really do. Her character evolves in such a breathtaking way, and it’s amazing to watch her slowly stand up more for herself while navigating a world that becomes more dangerous with every new chapter. Some of the men in her life manage to provoke a whole bunch of emotions in me, but I really hope there is some strong groveling in the future. Herais totally deserves to see them all on their knees (or at least two of them).
This series deserves a lot more attention! And I can’t wait to get my hands on book three.
September 7, 2026
tw:
never in my life have i considered 600 pages so short, and mourned every chapter finished because I WANTED MORE! the wait for book #3 might legitimately kill me.
this book was just as wild as book #1, if not even better. our romance finally started making some progress - occasionally we had a little too much miscommunication for my liking, but i appreciated when everyone showed some maturity and accepted that they had erred. i almost lost my mind thinking our five would be separated from the wonderful Herais - but it was all good guys, they were reunited shortly!!
Herais is still one of my most favourite heroines - she's dedicated to the cause, she's quick thinking and smart mouthed, and she's legitimately kind to others. she may not be the most social, friendliest of the bunch - but she has never treated people poorly without reason.
and ooo the progress made in our slow-burn... it's time for you all to admit that you're obsessed and that Herais should be your permanent sentinel, please! even without the romance it's clear that she's the perfect sentinel for them. stop separating my loves!
#pleasegivemebook3now #andalsobook4,5,6
never in my life have i considered 600 pages so short, and mourned every chapter finished because I WANTED MORE! the wait for book #3 might legitimately kill me.
this book was just as wild as book #1, if not even better. our romance finally started making some progress - occasionally we had a little too much miscommunication for my liking, but i appreciated when everyone showed some maturity and accepted that they had erred. i almost lost my mind thinking our five would be separated from the wonderful Herais - but it was all good guys, they were reunited shortly!!
Herais is still one of my most favourite heroines - she's dedicated to the cause, she's quick thinking and smart mouthed, and she's legitimately kind to others. she may not be the most social, friendliest of the bunch - but she has never treated people poorly without reason.
and ooo the progress made in our slow-burn... it's time for you all to admit that you're obsessed and that Herais should be your permanent sentinel, please! even without the romance it's clear that she's the perfect sentinel for them. stop separating my loves!
#pleasegivemebook3now #andalsobook4,5,6
May 19, 2026
Oh my god I could NOT PUT THIS DOWN. Literally consumed my life and thoughts until I finished it (in like a day and a half).
This series has the most gripping, edge of your seat, can’t put it down can’t look away action I’ve ever read. The pacing is so well done where you get lots of amazing action with incredible tension and the plot is juicy with unanswered questions.
Somewhat (vague) spoilers ahead:
I am so excited to see where this series goes but I really REALLY hope we get some more good moments for the characters and their relationships going forward! I just want them to be happy, I am a little nervous that this will be like a resident evil or similar video game that just gets more upsetting and darker every book, and without the comfort and joy of the characters falling for each other. With all the obstacles in their way I just don’t want the characters to be incapable of getting out of their own way the entire series.
I was absolutely giddy when two of the characters FINALLY Got together and was really bummed it immediately fell apart. The author said this was a 6 part series so I am hopeful that things smooth out internally to the group ❤️
I also hope the MMCs grovel so hard, I think the FMC (and we all) deserve it. I hope the FMC gives em hell but they won’t leave her alone. When they are separated in the book it was so stressful
This series has the most gripping, edge of your seat, can’t put it down can’t look away action I’ve ever read. The pacing is so well done where you get lots of amazing action with incredible tension and the plot is juicy with unanswered questions.
Somewhat (vague) spoilers ahead:
I am so excited to see where this series goes but I really REALLY hope we get some more good moments for the characters and their relationships going forward! I just want them to be happy, I am a little nervous that this will be like a resident evil or similar video game that just gets more upsetting and darker every book, and without the comfort and joy of the characters falling for each other. With all the obstacles in their way I just don’t want the characters to be incapable of getting out of their own way the entire series.
I was absolutely giddy when two of the characters FINALLY Got together and was really bummed it immediately fell apart. The author said this was a 6 part series so I am hopeful that things smooth out internally to the group ❤️
I also hope the MMCs grovel so hard, I think the FMC (and we all) deserve it. I hope the FMC gives em hell but they won’t leave her alone. When they are separated in the book it was so stressful
May 25, 2026
OH MY GODDDDDD
PLEASE EVERYONE GIVE THIS SERIES A TRY😭😭😭 THIS IS THE BEST DYSTOPIAN BOOK IVE EVER READ
700 pages is not enough i neeeeed moree, i need the next book like right now
PLEASE EVERYONE GIVE THIS SERIES A TRY😭😭😭 THIS IS THE BEST DYSTOPIAN BOOK IVE EVER READ
700 pages is not enough i neeeeed moree, i need the next book like right now
August 20, 2026
4 solid stars
Keeping all of the errors aside (I knew that going into this second installment and the author on their website mentioned they are working on getting this fixed). This still was a very original and interesting read.
Love the super slow burn and the competent and independent fmc. The slow unfurling of the plot has also been keeping me engaged. I like that there’s both a paranormal and political aspect of the war.
I will definitely read the next installment when it comes out later this year.
Keeping all of the errors aside (I knew that going into this second installment and the author on their website mentioned they are working on getting this fixed). This still was a very original and interesting read.
Love the super slow burn and the competent and independent fmc. The slow unfurling of the plot has also been keeping me engaged. I like that there’s both a paranormal and political aspect of the war.
I will definitely read the next installment when it comes out later this year.
July 21, 2026
aaaaaAAAAAaaaaaahhhhhhh
July 6, 2026
I’ll be thinking about this series for a long time
6 ⭐️ Finding out this is six books rocked me a bit but if you love the blackened blade series so far I feel like we’re in for the same ride so you just have to buckle up. i’m eager to continue the series and will happily wait to find out what comes next.
The editing in this book was a little bit better however, I agree with the others that this should go through English speaking reviewers if English is not the author‘s first language. Many of us are happy to do this completely free and would love a sneak peek at what happens to our favorite photographer/Sentinel and her purifiers.
I stayed up so late all weekend so I could read this the whole way through as I was dying to know what is going on in this world. While I found out so much more. I know the author is gearing up for a big one in the next book. The way the action scenes are written is pure gold. I really felt wrapped up in the battles and missions. The ladder scene shaved ten years from my life.
As someone who reads 300+ romance books a year you would think there was not enough romance in here. However, you would be wrong. True slow burns are usually too slow for me (lol) but while this was incredibly slow, the yearning was truly there. I do not know what I am supposed to read after this.… But I have a feeling I will be searching for something to give me a sensation like this for quite a while.
6 ⭐️ Finding out this is six books rocked me a bit but if you love the blackened blade series so far I feel like we’re in for the same ride so you just have to buckle up. i’m eager to continue the series and will happily wait to find out what comes next.
The editing in this book was a little bit better however, I agree with the others that this should go through English speaking reviewers if English is not the author‘s first language. Many of us are happy to do this completely free and would love a sneak peek at what happens to our favorite photographer/Sentinel and her purifiers.
I stayed up so late all weekend so I could read this the whole way through as I was dying to know what is going on in this world. While I found out so much more. I know the author is gearing up for a big one in the next book. The way the action scenes are written is pure gold. I really felt wrapped up in the battles and missions. The ladder scene shaved ten years from my life.
As someone who reads 300+ romance books a year you would think there was not enough romance in here. However, you would be wrong. True slow burns are usually too slow for me (lol) but while this was incredibly slow, the yearning was truly there. I do not know what I am supposed to read after this.… But I have a feeling I will be searching for something to give me a sensation like this for quite a while.
May 18, 2026
Hearing Through Silence by Sigrun Lien has the same effect as its predecessor: I finished it in two days and immediately started catastrophizing about when the third book comes out.
The beginning is slower than the first book, I won't lie. But once it finds its footing, it finds it hard, and suddenly it's midnight and you have responsibilities tomorrow that you are choosing to ignore.
Let me talk about 3 of the the romantic interests.
Ares. Just Ares. The relationship between him and Herais has texture, warmth, actual humor. You understand why she gravitates toward him because frankly so do I, a random reader with no stake in any of this. He is my favorite and I am already dreading whatever the author has planned for him because writers cannot be trusted with characters this good.
Seth, the physically violent disaster from book one, is slightly less of a disaster here. Progress! He begins to show something resembling respect toward Herais, which is the bare minimum, but it is more than he managed before. He needs considerably more groveling, humiliation, and genuine growth as a human being before I am willing to consider him redeemed. Hoping the author takes the harder road and makes him someone who respects people in general, not just the woman he develops feelings for. The alternative would be deeply unimpressive.
Magnus remains... a question mark. He occupies the structural role of main love interest and group leader, and yet something about him still feels unfinished. The other men, for better or worse, have clear personalities. Magnus gives the impression that the author is still in the process of discovering who he actually is.
Does the book have elements I would normally side-eye? Yes. Do I care? I did not care in book one and I care even less now. Five stars.
It ends on a cliffhanger. I spent an entire Sunday looking for similar books to survive the wait. I found nothing. Send help.
The beginning is slower than the first book, I won't lie. But once it finds its footing, it finds it hard, and suddenly it's midnight and you have responsibilities tomorrow that you are choosing to ignore.
Let me talk about 3 of the the romantic interests.
Ares. Just Ares. The relationship between him and Herais has texture, warmth, actual humor. You understand why she gravitates toward him because frankly so do I, a random reader with no stake in any of this. He is my favorite and I am already dreading whatever the author has planned for him because writers cannot be trusted with characters this good.
Seth, the physically violent disaster from book one, is slightly less of a disaster here. Progress! He begins to show something resembling respect toward Herais, which is the bare minimum, but it is more than he managed before. He needs considerably more groveling, humiliation, and genuine growth as a human being before I am willing to consider him redeemed. Hoping the author takes the harder road and makes him someone who respects people in general, not just the woman he develops feelings for. The alternative would be deeply unimpressive.
Magnus remains... a question mark. He occupies the structural role of main love interest and group leader, and yet something about him still feels unfinished. The other men, for better or worse, have clear personalities. Magnus gives the impression that the author is still in the process of discovering who he actually is.
Does the book have elements I would normally side-eye? Yes. Do I care? I did not care in book one and I care even less now. Five stars.
It ends on a cliffhanger. I spent an entire Sunday looking for similar books to survive the wait. I found nothing. Send help.
July 4, 2026
It’s amazing how much I’m loving this series. I haven’t read a book this entertaining in a minute. It made me miss other solid, slow-burn RH stories, which this delivers in spades.
All the characters are fleshed out and each interaction deepens the bonds between Herais and the others in a meaningful, if minuscule, way. It inches the story along without boring or annoying me. It’s a fantastic demonstration of a slow-burn romance.
Ares is becoming one of my top book boyfriends. He’s not perfect, but even his flaws make him endearing. I love how weak he is in the face of his feelings for Herais. Their scenes together when they’re one-on-one around 80% of the way in? Immaculate.
Quade had me gasping OUT LOUD from how randomly flirty he could be. The water-sharing scene?? Lord. I love how he’s your quintessential serious captain guy but could be a simple man fumbling over his words for the girl he likes. We didn’t get too many, but his interactions with Herais were gold.
Rathmayer… gonna be the slowest of the slow-burns, I gather. 😂 hate his ass
Voss! I love him. He’s tentative when it comes to opening up to Herais but I’m enjoying it all.
Jules! Love him as well. The sweetness in the way he treats Herais is lovely, especially when it grows after she randomly peels his layers back and truly SEES him.
I cannot wait for book three. This was a sizeable book, but it had me craving more. So so good.
EDIT:
Wanted to add that the feeling of dread was portrayed so well in this book. I felt extremely anxious around certain characters and I just have to applaud a book that makes me want to take a break because the foreboding feeling (especially regarding women in proximity to men) was too much.
I love Herais down. She is so relatable. Tough, but her upbringing brings a lot of shit to unpack. Need her to feel wanted, by a certain group of people, soon!!
SLOGHT SPOILERS FOR NEXT BOOK:
I need Herais and the team to find their way back to each other in Paris and save each other’s asses and have a moving reunion!! I know Ares especially better show his appreciation!! And whoever is behind this doomed-ass mission……… 👿 I’ll show you a demon 👿
All the characters are fleshed out and each interaction deepens the bonds between Herais and the others in a meaningful, if minuscule, way. It inches the story along without boring or annoying me. It’s a fantastic demonstration of a slow-burn romance.
Ares is becoming one of my top book boyfriends. He’s not perfect, but even his flaws make him endearing. I love how weak he is in the face of his feelings for Herais. Their scenes together when they’re one-on-one around 80% of the way in? Immaculate.
Quade had me gasping OUT LOUD from how randomly flirty he could be. The water-sharing scene?? Lord. I love how he’s your quintessential serious captain guy but could be a simple man fumbling over his words for the girl he likes. We didn’t get too many, but his interactions with Herais were gold.
Rathmayer… gonna be the slowest of the slow-burns, I gather. 😂 hate his ass
Voss! I love him. He’s tentative when it comes to opening up to Herais but I’m enjoying it all.
Jules! Love him as well. The sweetness in the way he treats Herais is lovely, especially when it grows after she randomly peels his layers back and truly SEES him.
I cannot wait for book three. This was a sizeable book, but it had me craving more. So so good.
EDIT:
Wanted to add that the feeling of dread was portrayed so well in this book. I felt extremely anxious around certain characters and I just have to applaud a book that makes me want to take a break because the foreboding feeling (especially regarding women in proximity to men) was too much.
I love Herais down. She is so relatable. Tough, but her upbringing brings a lot of shit to unpack. Need her to feel wanted, by a certain group of people, soon!!
SLOGHT SPOILERS FOR NEXT BOOK:
I need Herais and the team to find their way back to each other in Paris and save each other’s asses and have a moving reunion!! I know Ares especially better show his appreciation!! And whoever is behind this doomed-ass mission……… 👿 I’ll show you a demon 👿
September 2, 2026
BORINGGG
August 22, 2026
WOW!!
Another amazing book in the EchoMind Series!! Seriously, I read books 1 and 2 back to back over 2 days. The characters are all unique and easy to know, which can become cumbersome in Why Choose books, but not in this series. The author nailed each individual character and their traits. The storyline is easy to follow, but not super predictable making it very engaging!
My only frustration is the constant miscommunication. It’s one of my least favorite tropes. And why has none of Quade’s team realized they can share Herais? Like she’s obviously falling for 4 out of 5 of them. They know Sentinels work well in relationships with the whole team, ugh!! It’s like they can’t see past their own nose. Fingers crossed it gets better asap. I’m tired of them hurting Herais “for the good of the team”.
This author has created an incredible fantasy world and I cannot wait until the next book comes out. (Hopefully soon!! :))
Another amazing book in the EchoMind Series!! Seriously, I read books 1 and 2 back to back over 2 days. The characters are all unique and easy to know, which can become cumbersome in Why Choose books, but not in this series. The author nailed each individual character and their traits. The storyline is easy to follow, but not super predictable making it very engaging!
My only frustration is the constant miscommunication. It’s one of my least favorite tropes. And why has none of Quade’s team realized they can share Herais? Like she’s obviously falling for 4 out of 5 of them. They know Sentinels work well in relationships with the whole team, ugh!! It’s like they can’t see past their own nose. Fingers crossed it gets better asap. I’m tired of them hurting Herais “for the good of the team”.
This author has created an incredible fantasy world and I cannot wait until the next book comes out. (Hopefully soon!! :))
June 4, 2026
This series is fantastic so far! It's a refreshing Why Choose read where the fantasy elements feel less whimsical and more grounded. The way the fights are written gives me WW2 vibes. It feels gritty and based in our current reality.
This is a delicious slow burn and I am here for it. The characters are frustrating and lovely and feel real most of all. I'm dying to know what happens next and I don't even know when the 3rd book comes out.
However, there are quite a few grammatical and spelling errors throughout both books. They're pretty easy to brush over though since it is easy to tell what was meant to be written. They don't necessarily detract from the story but the story would have been improved if these were fixed.
Waiting on baited breath for the 3rd book. Please let it be soon!
This is a delicious slow burn and I am here for it. The characters are frustrating and lovely and feel real most of all. I'm dying to know what happens next and I don't even know when the 3rd book comes out.
However, there are quite a few grammatical and spelling errors throughout both books. They're pretty easy to brush over though since it is easy to tell what was meant to be written. They don't necessarily detract from the story but the story would have been improved if these were fixed.
Waiting on baited breath for the 3rd book. Please let it be soon!
April 13, 2026
I honestly don’t know what I’m going to do with myself until the end of 2026 because this series has an absolute CHOKEHOLD on me.
The pacing, the characters, the world building. Amazing.
I do feel like there is a lot of uncertainty between Herias and her men, and I can’t tell if it’s on purpose but it feels at times that they would honestly prefer to be away from each other. I don’t get the burn the world down for one another vibes from them, but in a way, it makes it more realistic and gritty.
I feel like that uncertainty is what really immerses me into this world because a lot of the decisions that the characters make are at times based on their own futures, their own outcomes, and I appreciate that it’s not just an all-consuming blindness to each other.
I love the character development that makes them all grow as individuals, in different ways. And I love the relationship progressions, which seem natural and not forced. It’s slow burn for sure, but I honestly can’t see it any other way.
I’m in awe of the writing and I know I’ll be reading this over and over again throughout the year until the third book is released.
The pacing, the characters, the world building. Amazing.
I do feel like there is a lot of uncertainty between Herias and her men, and I can’t tell if it’s on purpose but it feels at times that they would honestly prefer to be away from each other. I don’t get the burn the world down for one another vibes from them, but in a way, it makes it more realistic and gritty.
I feel like that uncertainty is what really immerses me into this world because a lot of the decisions that the characters make are at times based on their own futures, their own outcomes, and I appreciate that it’s not just an all-consuming blindness to each other.
I love the character development that makes them all grow as individuals, in different ways. And I love the relationship progressions, which seem natural and not forced. It’s slow burn for sure, but I honestly can’t see it any other way.
I’m in awe of the writing and I know I’ll be reading this over and over again throughout the year until the third book is released.
May 22, 2026
Sitting here in shock. And anxiously waiting book 3.
This was honestly the most refreshing series I’ve started in the past year. The storyline is unique. The post apocalyptic world is frightening. The characters are interesting. The stakes are real.
Could it use some editing? Yes. But it’s didn’t distract me from the epic storytelling.
I’m going to be in a serious book slump after this so please send along recommendations.
This was honestly the most refreshing series I’ve started in the past year. The storyline is unique. The post apocalyptic world is frightening. The characters are interesting. The stakes are real.
Could it use some editing? Yes. But it’s didn’t distract me from the epic storytelling.
I’m going to be in a serious book slump after this so please send along recommendations.
August 10, 2026
Wow. Hearing Through Silence has solidified the EchoMind Series as an all-time favorite! As a fan of dark, post-apocalyptic settings combined with a deep, emotional why-choose romance, this book delivered an unparalleled reading experience. The world of demon-infested Europe, where psychological warfare is as deadly as physical combat, is both terrifying and utterly brilliant.
Herais Blackburn is one of the most compelling heroines I've encountered. Her transition from a passive observer to an active participant, grappling with her new role and the profound emotional weight of the war, is exquisitely portrayed. Her increasing doubts about the authorities and, more terrifyingly, her own mind, create a deeply unsettling and powerful narrative. You are with her every step of the way as she struggles to discern truth from the demonic whispers.
The relationships with the five elite soldiers are simply perfection. The slow burn is agonizingly good, building incredible tension and chemistry as reluctant allies become something much more profound. The vital partnerships formed in this world between women and male fighters create a unique and deeply intimate foundation for the why-choose element. Each MMC's respect, reliance, and burgeoning feelings for Herais are expertly woven into the story, making their growing bond feel incredibly authentic and hard-earned in such a brutal environment. The multiple POVs truly enhance the richness of their connections and the overall narrative.
This book excels at raising the stakes and deepening the lore. The whispers of madness, the political intrigue, the literal monsters, and the growing sense that Herais might be either their salvation or their doom, keep the reader absolutely captivated. The emotional investment is total, and the blend of military, survival, and scorching romance is flawless.
Hearing Through Silence is a phenomenal read that I simply could not put down. It's dark, complex, emotionally resonant, and utterly thrilling. If you appreciate a deeply character-driven story set in a unique, terrifying post-apocalyptic world with a slow-burn, high-stakes why-choose romance, this book is an absolute must-read. Five out of five stars, without a doubt!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Herais Blackburn is one of the most compelling heroines I've encountered. Her transition from a passive observer to an active participant, grappling with her new role and the profound emotional weight of the war, is exquisitely portrayed. Her increasing doubts about the authorities and, more terrifyingly, her own mind, create a deeply unsettling and powerful narrative. You are with her every step of the way as she struggles to discern truth from the demonic whispers.
The relationships with the five elite soldiers are simply perfection. The slow burn is agonizingly good, building incredible tension and chemistry as reluctant allies become something much more profound. The vital partnerships formed in this world between women and male fighters create a unique and deeply intimate foundation for the why-choose element. Each MMC's respect, reliance, and burgeoning feelings for Herais are expertly woven into the story, making their growing bond feel incredibly authentic and hard-earned in such a brutal environment. The multiple POVs truly enhance the richness of their connections and the overall narrative.
This book excels at raising the stakes and deepening the lore. The whispers of madness, the political intrigue, the literal monsters, and the growing sense that Herais might be either their salvation or their doom, keep the reader absolutely captivated. The emotional investment is total, and the blend of military, survival, and scorching romance is flawless.
Hearing Through Silence is a phenomenal read that I simply could not put down. It's dark, complex, emotionally resonant, and utterly thrilling. If you appreciate a deeply character-driven story set in a unique, terrifying post-apocalyptic world with a slow-burn, high-stakes why-choose romance, this book is an absolute must-read. Five out of five stars, without a doubt!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 16, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m so glad I stuck with this series.
While the editing still isn’t perfect, it was noticeably less distracting this time around, which allowed the story itself to shine. And what a story it is!
Rather than feeling like “more of the same,” this book expands the world in meaningful ways while continuing to build on the relationships established in the first installment. The action never lets up, the mystery deepens, and I found myself even more invested in the fate of these characters than I already was.
One of my favorite things about this series is Herais. As her abilities continue to evolve, it would’ve been easy to make her overpowered, but instead the author doubles down on what I think is her greatest strength—her humanity. Even in a world where survival often demands impossible choices, she refuses to sacrifice her moral compass, and I admired her all the more for it.
I also found myself much more attached to the team in this book. Do they still desperately need a group therapy session? Absolutely. 😂 Their communication skills continue to leave a lot to be desired. But underneath all of that frustration, you can finally feel the trust beginning to take root, and those moments made every hard-earned interaction feel worth it.
What continues to impress me most is how original this series feels. The post-apocalyptic setting, the psychological horror, the military elements, and the demon mythology combine into something that doesn’t feel like it’s chasing current fantasy trends—it feels like it’s carving out its own space.
And then… that ending!!!
I somehow went into this thinking the story was wrapping up, only to be hit with a cliffhanger that immediately had me searching to see when the next book releases.
Needless to say, I’ll be there the day it comes out, ready to continue this adventure. Highly recommend!
I’m so glad I stuck with this series.
While the editing still isn’t perfect, it was noticeably less distracting this time around, which allowed the story itself to shine. And what a story it is!
Rather than feeling like “more of the same,” this book expands the world in meaningful ways while continuing to build on the relationships established in the first installment. The action never lets up, the mystery deepens, and I found myself even more invested in the fate of these characters than I already was.
One of my favorite things about this series is Herais. As her abilities continue to evolve, it would’ve been easy to make her overpowered, but instead the author doubles down on what I think is her greatest strength—her humanity. Even in a world where survival often demands impossible choices, she refuses to sacrifice her moral compass, and I admired her all the more for it.
I also found myself much more attached to the team in this book. Do they still desperately need a group therapy session? Absolutely. 😂 Their communication skills continue to leave a lot to be desired. But underneath all of that frustration, you can finally feel the trust beginning to take root, and those moments made every hard-earned interaction feel worth it.
What continues to impress me most is how original this series feels. The post-apocalyptic setting, the psychological horror, the military elements, and the demon mythology combine into something that doesn’t feel like it’s chasing current fantasy trends—it feels like it’s carving out its own space.
And then… that ending!!!
I somehow went into this thinking the story was wrapping up, only to be hit with a cliffhanger that immediately had me searching to see when the next book releases.
Needless to say, I’ll be there the day it comes out, ready to continue this adventure. Highly recommend!
August 22, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | 🌶️🌶️-🌶️🌶️🌶️
Hearing Through Silence – Sigrun Lien
I absolutely loved Seeing Through Ashes, and I’m so happy to say that Hearing Through Silence is every bit as good as the first book.
What I love most about this series is how much time everything is given to develop. Nothing feels rushed or forced. The characters, their relationships, and especially the romance are allowed to grow naturally and quietly in the background. Feelings build slowly, connections deepen, and when things finally happen, they just feel right. ❤️
But this series is so much more than the romance.
The dystopian world continues to expand, the mystery surrounding the creatures deepens, and little by little we learn more about what is really going on. At the same time, we get to know the characters on a much deeper level, and all the different pieces of the story slowly begin to connect.
I love that Sigrun Lien doesn’t rush to give us all the answers. The world, the mystery, the characters and their relationships are all unfolding together, and it makes the story feel incredibly immersive.
And then…
THAT ENDING.
Excuse me?! 😭
You cannot end a book like that and expect me to patiently wait for the next one. I am completely emotionally destroyed — in the best possible way.
Finding out that this is going to be a six-book series makes me both ridiculously excited and slightly terrified because apparently I’m going to be emotionally invested in these people for quite some time. 😂
If you enjoyed Seeing Through Ashes, you absolutely need to continue with Hearing Through Silence. Book two does not disappoint — if anything, I’m even more invested in this world now.
An easy 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hearing Through Silence – Sigrun Lien
I absolutely loved Seeing Through Ashes, and I’m so happy to say that Hearing Through Silence is every bit as good as the first book.
What I love most about this series is how much time everything is given to develop. Nothing feels rushed or forced. The characters, their relationships, and especially the romance are allowed to grow naturally and quietly in the background. Feelings build slowly, connections deepen, and when things finally happen, they just feel right. ❤️
But this series is so much more than the romance.
The dystopian world continues to expand, the mystery surrounding the creatures deepens, and little by little we learn more about what is really going on. At the same time, we get to know the characters on a much deeper level, and all the different pieces of the story slowly begin to connect.
I love that Sigrun Lien doesn’t rush to give us all the answers. The world, the mystery, the characters and their relationships are all unfolding together, and it makes the story feel incredibly immersive.
And then…
THAT ENDING.
Excuse me?! 😭
You cannot end a book like that and expect me to patiently wait for the next one. I am completely emotionally destroyed — in the best possible way.
Finding out that this is going to be a six-book series makes me both ridiculously excited and slightly terrified because apparently I’m going to be emotionally invested in these people for quite some time. 😂
If you enjoyed Seeing Through Ashes, you absolutely need to continue with Hearing Through Silence. Book two does not disappoint — if anything, I’m even more invested in this world now.
An easy 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
June 26, 2026
Who needs sleep?!?
This book had me in chokehold! I loved it, I desperately want book 3, like now… please!!
I’m sure there is a review that will give you all the spoilers and tell you the whole story but I’m not going to do that… just buy, download, and start reading!! I have not read a book in a minute that has sucked me in with plot, character development, spice, and world development. It’s so refreshing to read a book that deserves to be a series. We often get these books that are 4 plus and for what? The girl falls in love in the first book, you get some plot, and boom HEA. It’s so boring and so repetitive in the this genre right now… but don’t distress… you won’t get that repetitive BS in this story.
It’s a SLOW BRUN and for once, I feel the author actually understood that definition. The character development in this book… spectacular!! The plot only thickens and I need to know how this is all going to play out. The romance and spice, absolutely perfection, it’s not insta anything and I personally can’t be more thankful for that!!! Because I know more people what to know about that… it’s so good what little we got, I can’t wait for all these men to fall in love/lust, omg it’s going to be so delicious!!! I honestly cannot pick a favorite male character, they are perfectly imperfect emotionally stunted males and it makes me love them more, their so confused lol, every POV just makes you love them more, and I’m so glad this book is a why choose bc our girl Ais deserves them all. Even though it’s not instant love and they aren’t purposeful cruel, they just keep making mistakes, you just know when they do fall and understand their feelings and how to keep a girl, it’s going to be so satisfying…the tension, the drama, and the awareness… chef kiss!!! And please don’t think when I say “drama” I mean unbelievable why are they fighting nonsense drama, it’s believable. These people only know how to survive, so romantic emotions… they are all quite clueless and that’s the drama I’m relating too lol
I can keep on going with why I just spent 3 days going only on 2 of hours of sleep bc these books had me in literally chokehold, or I can wrap it up and just tell you to read it… so read it and join the fan club!
P.s. the grammar and editing needs work, so much so, I’m not going to lie, it is a little distracting. I had to reread a lot of the sentences and correct the spelling, and change some of the words for my brain to accept what I was reading to move forward. But please don’t let that stop you from enjoying this book, the story itself makes up for that by 1000%, it’s been so long since I honestly loved a story from beginning to end and I’ll take some grammatical errors any day for great storytelling.
P.s.s., if you want to play a drinking game while reading, you will blackout if you use the word “grudge” as your word of choice.
This book had me in chokehold! I loved it, I desperately want book 3, like now… please!!
I’m sure there is a review that will give you all the spoilers and tell you the whole story but I’m not going to do that… just buy, download, and start reading!! I have not read a book in a minute that has sucked me in with plot, character development, spice, and world development. It’s so refreshing to read a book that deserves to be a series. We often get these books that are 4 plus and for what? The girl falls in love in the first book, you get some plot, and boom HEA. It’s so boring and so repetitive in the this genre right now… but don’t distress… you won’t get that repetitive BS in this story.
It’s a SLOW BRUN and for once, I feel the author actually understood that definition. The character development in this book… spectacular!! The plot only thickens and I need to know how this is all going to play out. The romance and spice, absolutely perfection, it’s not insta anything and I personally can’t be more thankful for that!!! Because I know more people what to know about that… it’s so good what little we got, I can’t wait for all these men to fall in love/lust, omg it’s going to be so delicious!!! I honestly cannot pick a favorite male character, they are perfectly imperfect emotionally stunted males and it makes me love them more, their so confused lol, every POV just makes you love them more, and I’m so glad this book is a why choose bc our girl Ais deserves them all. Even though it’s not instant love and they aren’t purposeful cruel, they just keep making mistakes, you just know when they do fall and understand their feelings and how to keep a girl, it’s going to be so satisfying…the tension, the drama, and the awareness… chef kiss!!! And please don’t think when I say “drama” I mean unbelievable why are they fighting nonsense drama, it’s believable. These people only know how to survive, so romantic emotions… they are all quite clueless and that’s the drama I’m relating too lol
I can keep on going with why I just spent 3 days going only on 2 of hours of sleep bc these books had me in literally chokehold, or I can wrap it up and just tell you to read it… so read it and join the fan club!
P.s. the grammar and editing needs work, so much so, I’m not going to lie, it is a little distracting. I had to reread a lot of the sentences and correct the spelling, and change some of the words for my brain to accept what I was reading to move forward. But please don’t let that stop you from enjoying this book, the story itself makes up for that by 1000%, it’s been so long since I honestly loved a story from beginning to end and I’ll take some grammatical errors any day for great storytelling.
P.s.s., if you want to play a drinking game while reading, you will blackout if you use the word “grudge” as your word of choice.
September 14, 2026
ANAZING series! What a thrill!! What a story!!!
Can't wait rill the next book releases!!
Can't wait rill the next book releases!!
April 7, 2026
This one had me hooked
I read these books over two days and im absolutely hooked. This one ends on a cliffhanger and im hoping the next book doesnt take long to come out. Some of the team have finally pulled their heads out of their backsides. But I love how each of them are developing in their own way. Great story.
I read these books over two days and im absolutely hooked. This one ends on a cliffhanger and im hoping the next book doesnt take long to come out. Some of the team have finally pulled their heads out of their backsides. But I love how each of them are developing in their own way. Great story.
July 30, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ Dystopian ”demons and zombies” world-building in the first book, followed by a solid military plot-expansion, the
SLOWEST BURN EVER
and that cliffhanger in the second book = major post-apocalyptic book hangover 🤯
May 25, 2026
Aghhhhhhhhhhh I knew there would be a cliffhanger but not THIS bad!! 😂 Siggy, I need the next book like, today. This is the slowest of slow-burns and I am sooo here for it. I want to bash all of them over the head sometimes (including Herais) but oh my gosh is it amazing.
I giggled, I cried, I sat up because I was super excited, I was fuming at the audacity of some of these men…
I am so so so curious about what's going to happen next.
P.S. This one got quite a but darker, so definitely take the TWs to heart
I giggled, I cried, I sat up because I was super excited, I was fuming at the audacity of some of these men…
I am so so so curious about what's going to happen next.
P.S. This one got quite a but darker, so definitely take the TWs to heart
September 6, 2026
4.5 Got boring when the mcs were separated
May 15, 2026
I am convinced the author is mind-controlled me into forgetting I have a real life to attend to. I physically cannot put this book down to do anything productive. Someone, please send help!
In book 2, the prose has reached a whole new level of sophistication. The author doesn't shy away from investing heavily in character arcs. These aren't just tropes; they are living, breathing humans with messy flaws and hard-earned growth. The action sequences? Absolutely elite. The author relentlessly throws one obstacle after another at the protagonists, creating a suffocating tension that had me gasping for air. Honestly, is there any hope left for humanity in this universe?
Also, the narrative is enriched by its sharp exploration of the unique struggles of women in the military, deep-seated political corruption, and the intricate power struggles between the Military, OCO, and rebel factions.
As a fan of slow-burn, I am beyond satisfied. The emotional payoff is profound, and I am dying to see how the author navigates the dynamics with the other MMCs in the upcoming books.
This is easily my top read of 2026—and quite possibly the peak of the genre for years to come. I’m genuinely terrified that I’ll never find another RH series this exceptional again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After receiving the ARC, I loved it so much that I just had to buy a Kindle copy to show my support!!!
In book 2, the prose has reached a whole new level of sophistication. The author doesn't shy away from investing heavily in character arcs. These aren't just tropes; they are living, breathing humans with messy flaws and hard-earned growth. The action sequences? Absolutely elite. The author relentlessly throws one obstacle after another at the protagonists, creating a suffocating tension that had me gasping for air. Honestly, is there any hope left for humanity in this universe?
Also, the narrative is enriched by its sharp exploration of the unique struggles of women in the military, deep-seated political corruption, and the intricate power struggles between the Military, OCO, and rebel factions.
As a fan of slow-burn, I am beyond satisfied. The emotional payoff is profound, and I am dying to see how the author navigates the dynamics with the other MMCs in the upcoming books.
This is easily my top read of 2026—and quite possibly the peak of the genre for years to come. I’m genuinely terrified that I’ll never find another RH series this exceptional again.
After receiving the ARC, I loved it so much that I just had to buy a Kindle copy to show my support!!!
May 22, 2026
Why do I torture myself with incomplete series?!
😩😩😩
Talk about a cliffhanger.
I will not be ok until I get my hands on the third book.
😩😩😩
Talk about a cliffhanger.
I will not be ok until I get my hands on the third book.
May 21, 2026
IN LOVE, can't wait to read the next book. Beware it's gonna be a 6 book series though!
June 21, 2026
Could absolutely become a movie
This. Book. Actually, both books. This new author and these two books have consumed me!!! Probably the best story I have read in a year. This story is intense. Action. Nail biting moments. All the feels. It could absolutely become a movie or series. These characters are raw, imperfect, real, broken, redeemable. This apocalypse may not be recoverable. It's too early to tell, but these characters will leave you rooting for humanity.
This. Book. Actually, both books. This new author and these two books have consumed me!!! Probably the best story I have read in a year. This story is intense. Action. Nail biting moments. All the feels. It could absolutely become a movie or series. These characters are raw, imperfect, real, broken, redeemable. This apocalypse may not be recoverable. It's too early to tell, but these characters will leave you rooting for humanity.
Read
May 6, 2026Book 2 was fine. I still like the FMC. Idk if I’ll read book 3 though. I’d love for these books to get a proper edit.
This series is making me realize how I need more avoidant style FMCs who will not chase MMCs or ask for affection or interest and don’t forgive easily.
This series is making me realize how I need more avoidant style FMCs who will not chase MMCs or ask for affection or interest and don’t forgive easily.
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